Workers Compensation

Workplace Injuries in Ohio

Suffering a work-related injury can have serious consequences on a person’s life. Other than the physical pain, the injury can also cause tremendous mental and financial strain to the injured person. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics there were nearly 2.8 million nonfatal workplace illnesses and injuries in the private industry in 2019 in the United States, and approximately.

Common Workplace Injuries

Although injuries can occur at any workplace, certain industries including construction and manufacturing industries are inherently more dangerous for workers. Some common workplace injuries include:

Falls

Workers at industrial sites are susceptible to falls from roofs, scaffoldings, and ladders. This can cause severe injuries to the victim’s limbs, head, and back.

Fire and Explosions

These injuries usually occur at sites that contain hazardous substances or flammable materials. They can cause severe burn injuries or even lead to victim’s death.

Equipment Related Injuries

A substantial amount of workplace injuries are caused due to faulty or malfunctioning equipment, including overturning of forklifts and misfiring of power tools. This may also lead to a product liability claim.

Heat Strokes

Workers who work long hours in the sun or are subjected to extreme temperatures can suffer from heat strokes.

Falling Objects

Workers, especially at construction sites, are at risk of being hit by falling objects including tools and construction materials. This can cause severe head and brain injuries to the victim.

Workers’ Compensation Claims in Ohio

Ohio law allows workers to claim compensation from the employer along with other workers’ compensation benefits in case of a work-related injury or occupational illness. The worker is not required to prove that the employer was at fault to claim benefits or compensation. However, the following conditions must be met to receive benefits:

  • The worker must prove that the injury occurred in course of the employment.

 

  • The worker must prove that the injury was caused due to a factor related to his or her job.

A worker may be able to receive the following benefits through a workers’ compensation claim:

  • Medical benefits including treatment costs, hospital bills, and other medical charges.
  • Lost wages in case the injury causes the worker to be absent work.
  • Temporary or permanent disability payments.
  • Rehabilitation benefits that help the worker in returning to work and retaining employment.

Benefits may also be provided for the worker’s dependents in case of his or her death. In some cases, the worker can also file a third-party lawsuit if the injury is caused due to another person’s or company’s negligence. A worker may file a third-party claim in addition to a workers’ compensation claim.

Statute of Limitations

In Ohio, the statute of limitations to file a workers’ compensation claim with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is one year from the date of the alleged injury.

Consult an Ohio Workers’ Compensation Attorney

The workers’ compensation landscape in Ohio changes constantly depending upon the judicial, legislative, and policy decisions. Many injured workers are not aware of their rights and the remedies available to them in case of a workplace injury. Our team of seasoned Workers’ Compensation Attorneys at Ziccarelli & Martello will holistically evaluate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.